BA (Hons) Character and Creative Effects

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Character and Creative Effects program develops students' skills in model design, encompassing puppets, props, sculptures, and display pieces. Through a blend of academic study, practical projects, and industry collaborations, the program equips graduates with the knowledge, hands-on experience, and critical thinking abilities to excel in the creative industry. The curriculum emphasizes a hands-on approach, fostering creativity and experimentation, and graduates have secured positions at renowned companies such as Merlin Entertainments and Warner Bros.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Title:

BA (Hons) Character and Creative Effects

Overview:

This immersive, all-rounder program develops your skills in model design, encompassing the creation of puppets, theatre props, public sculptures, and display pieces. It caters to individuals with a flair for design and figurative sculpture, offering them the knowledge and practical experience to excel in their chosen career paths. The program focuses on developing your personal toolkit, including essential knowledge, hands-on experience, and critical thinking skills, equipping you for success within the model design industry.

Objectives:

• Hone your design and sculpting skills through a comprehensive curriculum
• Gain practical experience through hands-on projects and collaborations
• Develop a strong personal toolkit encompassing essential knowledge and critical thinking
• Become proficient in the end-to-end process of model creation and finishing
• Prepare for a successful career in various fields within the creative industry

Description:

• The program blends academic study, practical projects, and co-curricular activities to provide a comprehensive and immersive learning experience.
• You will be taught by experienced staff with diverse backgrounds in various areas of the industry, ensuring you receive a well-rounded education.
• The large atelier-style studio provides ample workspace and opportunities to socialize with other students.
• The program boasts outstanding industry links, offering you regular contact with professionals and access to potential placements and collaborative projects.
• The curriculum integrates traditional and cutting-edge technologies, ensuring you stay relevant in the evolving industry.

Outline

Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics related to character and creative effects, including:

• Design and creation of puppets and props for performance
• Public sculptures and display pieces
• Figurative sculpture
• Molding and casting
• Art-working
• General workshop practice
• Digital processes

Program Structure:

The program is structured as follows:

• Level 4: Focuses on establishing general workshop skills, including basic sculpting, molding, casting, and exploring digital processes.
• Level 5: Builds upon previously acquired skills and introduces more specialized techniques and materials related to character and creative effects.
• Level 6: Includes the option of a sandwich year (placement or study abroad) to gain practical experience and broaden your skillset.
• Final year: Consists of two major projects, allowing you to showcase your skills, design expertise, and project delivery abilities.

Course Schedule:

The program follows a standard academic calendar with lectures, seminars, and workshops spread throughout the week.

Modules:

Level 4:

• Scale and Structure: Introduces design conventions, materials, fabrication, technical machines, and hand-making skills.
• Shape and Form: Provides experience in design and construction of 3D models for communication purposes.
• Design and Fabrication: Further develops skills in design and making, incorporating historical context and professional practice considerations.
• The Model in Mind: Histories, Contexts, Theories: Examines the use of models as cultural objects, their role in communication, and historical and theoretical perspectives.

Level 5:

• Design Process and Realisation: Introduces advanced materials and techniques, focusing on skill development and self-management.
• Character and Creative Effects Contextualized Model: Develops a self-generated brief for a character and creative effects project with a specific professional context.
• Talking Models: The Theory of Practice: Deepens understanding of the historical and contemporary uses of models in various applications.
• Turbo A and B: Intensive one or two-week projects focused on explorative approaches to materials and processes.

Level 6:

• Sandwich Year (Creative Arts): Optional placement year in a professional setting related to the creative and cultural industries.

Assessment

Assessment methods used in the program may include:

• Coursework assignments
• Practical projects and demonstrations
• Presentations
• Written exams
• Portfolio development
• Reflective essays
• Peer and self-evaluation
Assessment criteria will vary depending on the specific module and project, but generally focus on the following:
• Design and creative skills
• Technical proficiency
• Problem-solving abilities
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Communication skills
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Project management skills
• Professionalism and work ethic

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and ensure a comprehensive learning experience. These include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Tutorials
• Demonstrations
• Independent study
• Group projects
• Guest lectures from industry professionals

Faculty:

The program is led by experienced staff with expertise in various areas, including:

• Figurative sculpting
• Molding and casting
• General model making
• Figurative drawing
• Prop making for animation
• Product design
Faculty members bring their real-world experience to the classroom, providing students with valuable insights into the industry and career opportunities.

Unique Approach:

The program emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning. Students are encouraged to explore their creativity and experiment with different materials and techniques.

Careers

The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to pursue careers in various fields, including:

• Mold room trainee
• Mold room supervisor
• Sculptor for film interiors
• Puppet maker for animation
• Prop maker for animation
• Greens team member (Disney and Warner Bros.)
• Special effects technician
• Museum and exhibition work
• Design studios

Graduate Outcomes:

Graduates have secured positions at renowned companies such as Merlin Entertainments (Madame Tussauds), Warner Bros., Harry Potter Experience, and on film studio projects for Marvel and DC Comics, Star Wars franchise, and other fantasy productions.

Other

• The program offers an optional sandwich year placement or study abroad opportunity to gain practical experience and expand your skillset.
• The program has outstanding industry links, providing students with regular access to professional contacts and potential placements.
• The curriculum is designed to meet industry standards, ensuring graduates are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen career paths.

Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students.

UK students

Full time: £9,250 for the 2024/2025 academic year

EU

Full time: £15,500 for the 2024/2025 academic year

International students

Full time: £15,500 for the 2024/2025 academic year